A Sars-like virus is spreading extremely fast in the Middle East, but the possible cause of the disease is what is making headlines.

So, what causes this Sars-like virus? Well, doctors and officials haven’t been able to put their finger on the source of the virus. But, recent observations show that several people who have suffered from the disease contracted it after being in close quarters with another person who has it for a long time, implying that it could be contagious.

How Many People Have Been Affected?

The total number of people around the globe who have suffered from the virus, also called MERS-CoV (Middle East respiratory symptom coronavirus), is now 49 after a patient died in France on Tuesday, May 28. This is just one of the 27 cases that have resulted in death. That’s more than half. The most recent incidents are in Saudi Arabia.

Experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) say the Mers-CoV virus is a threat to everyone and no single country can keep it under control by itself.

WHO and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention offer a few symptoms of MERS-CoV and how to treat it. Initially, it might seem like a cold. It even has some similar symptoms like coughing and a fever. But beware, it does have the potential to attack the respiratory system and cause pneumonia and even kidney failure.

While there’s speculation of the cause of the virus and how it spreads from person to person, scientists say there’s no clear source.

This is all the information we have at this time. If you feel you have a cold coming on, don't let it get worse. Take care of yourself and see your doctor if symptoms of a common cold worsen.